The best camping in Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area, CA

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Discover the thrill of off-road adventure at Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch SVRA.  

The best camping near Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area, CA

No matching sites in the park — explore these options nearby.
Cooling off on a warm day.

2. Sierra Ranch - Cabins & Tents

98%
(602)
46mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Springville, CA
Swimming in North Fork Tule River, miles of hiking trails on ranch. River Ridge Ranch goes from 1,000' elev. to 3,000' elevation. Hike right on the ranch. We are between Sequoia National Park (about an hour) and the Giant Sequoia National Monument (16 miles to groves up Hwy 190 and no entrance fee). Choose from individual tent sites, group tent sites, tiny cabins. the 5-acre Compound or the Entire Ranch. We occasionally host small, thoughtful, low impact weddings. Please inquire. There are 33 giant sequoia groves in our Southern Region of the Giant Sequoia National Monument, some easily driven to, and some remote. Our ranch is a nature preserve and an education demonstration site, teaching sustainable and regenerative land use practices. River Ridge Institute, our non-profit, hosts a variety of events for the public. Please note: you are expected to leave the ranch and kitchen area as you found it, i.e., dishes washed thoroughly and dried and put away, recycling separated from trash, food scraps in compost buckets, sticky marshmallow removed from forks and surfaces (ick!). Thank you. Enjoy: The Kitchen has a 3-burner cooktop, large fridge, microwave, full dishes and utensils and pots and pans with a big washing area in the back. Propane barbecue grill.. There's a River Barn to use as a remote space and Turtle Cove for swimming. Saturday morning Farmer's Market in downtown at 9 AM - Noon. Ancestral land of the Foothill Yokuts tribe. Homesteaded in 1859, owned by the Negus family from 1909-2000. Barbara and I bought it to save it from subdivision and it's now protected by a Conservation Easement and acts as a community center for the arts, music, poetry, gatherings and outdoor education. We're both biologists, so, just ask us. Please see the Rules and Safety section to review our Waiver of Liability.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
A Unique Mountain Retreat

3. A Unique Mountain Retreat

99%
(287)
44mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tehachapi, CA
The title says it all this property is truly A Unique Mountain Retreat that will give you the peace, quiet and tranquility you are looking for. An energy efficient Uniquely designed home that is off the grid and has a very green footprint with solar and windmill to charge batteries. Oak and pine tree covered acres with fitness and nature trails around the property. Each level campsite with picnic table is designed for privacy with plenty of distance between sites and mountain views in every direction, along with an optional gas log fire pit and BBQ. There is plenty of clean, non potable drinking water, custom built toilets and optional hot showers, limited electrical use, cell phone charging and low power use devices as I am off grid. There is a fitness and nature trail on the property and Pacific Crest trail is approx 20 to 30 min drive, Mountain park which has many miles of hiking trails and an Indian reservation with hikes to many petroglphs. Things to see are the World famous Tehachapi railway loop, historic downtown, vineyards, mountain spirit center a Buddhist temple, glider rides, bicycle riding and fishing. There is cell service around the property but intermittent at the campsites.
Pets
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from 
$45
 / night
Golden Cactus Ghost Town

4. Golden Cactus Ghost Town

100%
(1)
22mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV · Pearsonville, CA
Golden Cactus Ghost Town is a great place to rest and relax, surrounded by beautiful views in every direction. You can explore the ghost town itself or hike into No Name Canyon, where you’ll find a small river. There are also many dirt roads behind the property, perfect for dirt bikes and other off-road vehicles. The property is located just ¾ mile north of the Pearsonville Shell gas station and only 10 minutes from the nearest town. A public restroom is available next to the picnic area, where you can also enjoy a barbecue if you wish. For RVs, we currently offer a 30-amp power outlet if you’d like to hook something up. Please note there are no gray or black water dumping facilities available. If you’re camping outdoors, feel free to set up your tent in the designated area, which also includes access to a power outlet.
Pets
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Trash
from 
$29
 / night
Drone shot of Okihi in winter.

6. Okihi- Reimagining The Kern River

96%
(26)
41mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging · Bakersfield, CA
Okihi is a unique sanctuary where habitat restoration meets outdoor adventure. Nestled in a diverse landscape, we focus on healing the land through hands-on conservation while offering a space to connect with nature, camp, and learn. This is not your average campground, so i make sure to look over the rules. They will be enforced to keep a tranquil vibe. Restore and Explore We’re committed to revitalizing native habitats—our land is a living example of ecological renewal. Wander scenic trails, enjoy wildlife, and witness the power of restoration in action. Sustainable Farming and Livestock Our animals play a key role in regeneration. Horses, sheep, goats, turkeys, and chickens help manage invasive weeds and maintain healthy ecosystems. We compost all their manure, turning waste into valuable resources for soil health. Camping and Community Camp under the stars, explore nature, and join us for seasonal events and workshops focused on sustainability, conservation, and community. Whether you're here to camp, hike, or volunteer, Okihi is a place where nature and people come together for a common cause. Okihi is more than a destination—it's a living example of land restoration, sustainable living, and the power of community. Come explore, learn, and make a difference! Okihi is approximately 15 minutes east of Downtown Bakersfield. 20 minutes away from the 99 hwy or 178 hwy. Whichever way you are traveling, we are a great stopover point. Sites are spread around on the east side of the property facing the river for beautiful river views while you sip coffee from your site. There are a multitude of recreation opportunities to enjoy. On site there is hiking, places to practice yoga or meditate, kayaking, paddle boarding. We also have a hammock veranda that is fully shaded and a great place to relax along the river. Miles of biking paths run on the road right by where we are situated and there is a nearby river rafting company if you want the white water experience. Most of our campers are road tripping, getting away from LA, or are looking for a stopover on their way to/from Yosemite, Sequoia, Joshua Tree, etc. We are in a desert climate – cold in the winter and hot in the summer. Portable heaters or fans with misting options are available for rent.
Pets
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from 
$32
 / night
Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

8. Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

99%
(561)
14mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Wofford Heights, CA
Private ADULT ONLY camping. With a central outdoor kitchen and dining area, group fire pit, and a bathroom with a composting toilet, sink and shower. Seasonal creek. Quiet and private. Stargazer and the Boulders have their own fire pit, and there's a communal fire pit too. We have a small cabin (The Playhouse) and 9 campsites. Each campsite will accommodate a medium size tent (10’x10’ max), except for The Boulders which will accommodate more. No Pets, No Smoking ADULTS ONLY. Spirit Walk is a quiet meditative place. It is not a conducive environment for young children. Thank you for understanding. Lake Isabella, the Kern River and historic Kernville are just 5 minutes down the road. All Hipcamp proceeds go directly back into the land in the way of forest maintenance, a tree planting program and improvements to the facilities.
Potable water
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from 
$55
 / night
Underworld Farms

11. Underworld Farms

86%
(43)
11mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Kernville, CA
Underworld Farms is a small goat ranch in the Kern River Valley. Surrounded by forestry land, on the Kern River, and on top of what used to be the old town of Whiskey Flat (Later re-named Kernville). There is no end to the beauty, history and adventure all around the property. Life took us to the Kern River Valley after moving out of Los Angeles. We enjoy living in the Southern Sierras immersed in all its natural beauty. The small but magnificent town of Kernville is approximately two and a half miles north of us. Our livestock includes horses, dairy goats, sheep, and rabbits: Most of which are raised and bred as our son's 4H or FFA projects. You may be wondering why our farm is called "Underworld Farms". In a nutshell, since our ranch is on the footprint of the historic town of Whiskey Flat, we just happen to be south of the old Whiskey Flat "Boot Hill" Cemetery. Our "driveway" is the road that led from the old town of Kernville to the cemetery. We hope that you consider parking your RV, van conversion, or trailer on one of our customized spots on the property. Or drive your vehicle and pitch a tent on one of our tent friendly sports. Or enjoy a stay in one of our small cabins. Regardless of what you stay in, you will definitely have a memorable time. The campground is VERY barebones and rural. Critters, bugs, and sometimes fellow Hipcampers can be sparce or prevalent pretty randomly. Because Underworld Farms is a working ranch, you will probably hear livestock noises like horses neighing, sheep and goats calling, and our protector dogs barking from time to time. We encourage you to walk over to the horses and goats and meet them. They especially like when you bring them carrots or apple pieces. The ranch has a double outhouse with a hand washing station sandwiched in between, it is rustic and bare bones. We check it to see if it has paper products, soap, water, and plenty of room in the trash bins. During the hotter months, the "daddy longleg" spiders enjoy infiltrating the outhouses and seem to spin new webs overnight. But they and their webs are harmless and easy to brush off. We ask for your assistance if there is something missing, or the trash needs taking out, or if the spiders have taken over again by getting ahold of us through the Hipcamp App and letting us know. With all that being said, there is an ambient beauty here that is unbelievable and memorable. This beauty and draw is so powerful that it causes the many people who come visit to make arrangements to live in our little valley. There is much to do in and around our valley that you couldn't do it all in a lifetime. We hope that you come and stay at the ranch while enjoying our valley. May you have a great time. *** THE PIN MAP ON HIPCAMP IS NOT 100% ACCURATE. PLEASE REFFER TO THE MAP OF THE PROPERTY IN THE PHOTOS
Pets
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from 
$24
 / night
long view, outhouse to the left

13. Descanso Cabanita

92%
(6)
27mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site · Lodging · California Hot Springs, CA
This is a recently renovated, tiny cabin that is quaint and cozy with its own small front porch. There is an outhouse with a dry flush toilet outside of the cabanita. It is set on a property with a larger host cabin and looks out over the beautiful hills of the Sequoia National Monument. It is ideal for one person, or two who don't mind sharing a small space. It is half a mile from the town/resort of California Hot Springs; currently under renovation. There are numerous hiking trails and creeks for hiking and fishing nearby and it is a 45-minute drive to the Trail of 100 Giants Sequoia grove. The cabanita is also 3 miles from the town of Pine Flat which hosts seven oaks market and grill. Note* This is a drug-free, no smoking property
Pets
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from 
$64
 / night
Cartago Springs

16. Cartago Springs

78%
(9)
45mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 2 sites · RVs · Cartago, CA
Cartago Springs is right off of the 395 HWY, with beautiful panoramic views of the Sierra mountains with bright twinkling open skies at night. Just minutes from cotton wood creek and a short drive to the Alabama Hills and Mt. Whitney. Open land to park your trailer or RV. Star gaze and eat under the stars. Cartago wildlife area is a five minute walk down the road from the property. The Cartago Wildlife area is a protected wet land that homes many different birds and wild life, there are walking trails and a small pond to enjoy. The property sits near what was once the old Cartago dump. You can find beautiful colored glass, porcelains, neat items like silverware, car parts, old lighters, a pickers paradise. feel free to take any treasures you find home with you! If you like to ride, Olancha dunes is just down the road. Cactus Flats Road in Olancha will take you into the Coso Mountains where the trails are endless, the views are beautiful and the peace is surreal. Cartago Springs is a few miles north of the Mobile gas station, where they serve hot food a perfect convince for the traveler. Hope to see you soon!
Pets
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Campfires
from 
$24
 / night
Bare All Retreat

17. Bare All Retreat

88%
(43)
30mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Caliente, CA
Welcome to our 138-acre ranch and farm, nestled amidst the stunning natural beauty of our mountainous landscape. With a creek running through the front and steep mountains in the rear, our property offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Explore the many old gold miners trails that crisscross our land, now perfect for horseback riding and OHV adventures. Our working ranch and farm provide a glimpse into traditional agricultural practices, with opportunities to observe and participate in farm activities. Keep an eye out for free-range cattle roaming the area, adding to the rustic charm of our mountainous terrain. Discover hidden valleys with seasonal waterfalls and year-round springs, offering peaceful retreats and refreshing natural beauty. Whether you're seeking adventure on the trails, relaxation by the creek, or a glimpse into rural life on the farm, our 138-acre property has something for everyone to enjoy amidst the serene beauty of nature.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Deer Ravine Lodgings

18. Deer Ravine Lodgings

100%
(15)
37mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 3 sites · Lodging · Keene, CA
We opened up our private mountain property during COVID 2020 so people could safely get into nature and enjoy the fresh air, peace and quiet, and wildlife.  We live on an 11-acre ranch in the beautiful and quiet community.  This is not a property for loud or raucous parties.  Only registered guests are allowed.  Pets on leashes are welcome upon prior approval only.  Absolutely no fires allowed May-December due to extreme fire danger.  No running water and no WiFi.   Learn more about this land:Enjoy a luxurious outdoor camping experience in a 16'x20' White Duck canvas tent on a large deck. There is a separate, private bathroom/shower building. Relax and sleep like a baby in a hand-hewn log king-sized bed and queen sized sofa sleeper and opulent linens. The Glamp tent and deck include a private deck, propane BBQ grill, sink with running well water, a refrigerator, Keurig, microwave, and TV with DVD's (no WiFi). July and August are hot in the tent between 2pm-6pm. The evenings are cooling down. We have two fans and an evaporative cooler and an electric heater. ABSOLUTELY NO FIRES MAY-DECEMBER DUE TO EXTREME FIRE DANGER. This is a "Leave No Trace" space and a "Shoeless Tent." Leashed pets are allowed with prior approval by hosts. For your convenience, we have a crate and dog bed available. A 7-person bullfrog spa is available upon request and availability. An outdoor solar shower (may be cold depending on weather and time of day) is available to rinse off prior to using the Spa. No unregistered guests are allowed on the property. We will be there to greet you and describe our property and amenities. We are available to answer your questions or assist you as needed.
Pets
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from 
$180
 / night
Orange Grove RV Park

19. Orange Grove RV Park

100%
(3)
43mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 93 sites · RVs · Bakersfield, CA
Every one of our extra-long, pull-thru sites offers the shade of two or more leafy orange trees. With their snowy white trunks and fragrant, flavorful fruits, the trees form a 40-acre oasis of shade and serenity in Bakersfield’s desert climate. And guess what? You can pick all the sweet, delicious oranges you want. Swim, hike, and explore at California’s most unique destination – Orange Grove RV Park. Easily accessible from CA Hwy 58, comfort and luxury are yours at Orange Grove. Sip your morning coffee as the sun comes up over the Sierra Nevada Mountains, just as folks have been doing since we first opened in 1989. Enjoy 272 days of sunshine every year, romp with your doggie in the dog parks, and leave your mittens behind. Our cleanliness, convenience, and superior service bring guests in. Our affordable rates, rave reviews, and a variety of discounts keep folks coming back. Friendly and courteous customer service makes every moment of your visit a real pleasure. Follow the smoothly paved street to your level, paved site. Every RV space offers… - Extra wide pull-through spaces - 65′ and 90′ spaces - Room for 4 slide-outs - Spotlessly clean restroom and shower facilities - Large modern laundry facility - Cable TV hookups - Parking for 2 vehicles - Picnic table
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$60
 / night
Sitting around the campfire. Bring your chairs.

20. Manzanita Farms

100%
(5)
22mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site · RV · Glennville, CA
Our camp area is right next to our home. We live on 2 acres which is apart of our families 500 acre ranch and home to a summer camp and retreats. There are nice hiking trails we can direct you to as long as the National Forest isn't closed. We have a few picnic tables, outdoor electrical, a grill, fresh spring water, water hook up and beautiful scenery all around. We do own a few ca.  Our space isn’t huge but we are happy to share. We live in a remote area and its beautiful and quiet.  There is a local town 6 miles down the road that has several places to eat and one small place to get some grocery. This property that we live on has been lived on now by 4 generations. My grandpa bought this land with his brother in 1940s. His brother eventually sold his portion leaving my grandpa with a little over 500 acres...We also run retreats off and on year round on the main property and offer a wide variety of things for our clients. Due to COVID, and the strange year had, we thought that this would help us gain a little of our money lost as well as meet some really cool travelers along the way. We call this God's country because it is a unique and beautiful peace of land, even in the driest of moments. And...there is beautiful manzanita trees all over property. We personally live 1/2 mile from the main part of the property Jameson Ranch, where the summer camp is held. I love to garden and are in the process of expanding our portion of the property to putting in fruit orchards and berry bushes. Our whole property also borders the Sequoia National Forest and there are some fun walking trails around there. Its very peaceful here and a reconnect with nature so to speak if that is what you are looking for. We hope to share this little bit of our heaven with you. Side note: If interested in the summer time programs for kids camp or family camp, let us know and we are happy to share that with you too.
Pets
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Campfires
from 
$57
 / night

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The best camping in Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area, CA guide

Overview

About

Embark on an off-road adventure at Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area. With over 26,000 acres of rugged Mojave Desert terrain, this park invites ATV, motorcycle, ROV, and 4x4 enthusiasts to explore its vast landscapes. Venture across a checkerboard of trails, where the thrill of the ride is matched only by the scenic vistas. Prepare for a self-contained experience, as the park offers pit toilets but no water or hook-ups for camping.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch SVRA is from October to April, when cooler temperatures and occasional rains create perfect conditions for off-highway vehicle recreation. Summer brings intense heat, making it less favorable for visitors. Winter months may see snowfall, adding a unique challenge to the terrain.

Know before you go

  • Prepare for self-sufficient camping; no water or hook-ups are available on-site.
  • Check for fire closure orders before planning your visit to ensure access to all areas.
  • OHV recreation is best enjoyed from October to April for optimal weather conditions.
  • Remember, the park is open 24/7, but always call ahead for the latest updates on conditions.
  • For emergencies, dial 911, and for park information, call (661) 248-7008.
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